MILLINOCKET – Evelyn Mae Fowler Larlee, 91, passed away Thursday, June 17, 2004, at a local healthcare facility, surrounded by her loving family. Mrs. Larlee was born Jan. 1, 1913, in Norcross, the daughter of Albert and Kate (Jones) Fowler. She took great pride in being a direct descendent of Thomas and Betsy Fowler, who in 1829 brought their family to the Millinocket area, becoming the first white settlers in the region. A former resident of several Maine communities, she lived in Millinocket for 10 years with her sister, Charlotte Thaxter, and then was a three year resident of the Stearns Assisted Living Facility. She was the wife of the late Preston John Larlee, whom she married in 1934. Mr. Larlee died in Sulphur, La., in 1987. After attending several schools, Mrs. Larlee completed her formal education at Higgins Classical Institute in Charleston. Retiring as commissary supervisor at age 72 after 19 years’ employment at the Canteen Food Services in Bangor, she enjoyed a lifetime of expertise in food preparation. Beginning at her mother’s side, she first began cooking at the Norcross House as a very young girl, and in the 50s, she revived the family business, catering and hosting group events. When living in Brownville Junction, she provided lunches for railroad workers and was known to many friends and acquaintances as the “the best cook in Piscataquis County.” Mrs. Larlee was an avid reader and greatly enjoyed craftwork that included fine knitting and crocheting. Survivors include one brother and sister, Frederick Fowler and Charlotte (Fowler) Thaxter of Millinocket; two sons and daughters-in-law, Bryant and Doreen Larlee of Benton and David and Marilyn Larlee of Hudson, N.H.; one daughter and son-in-law, Katherine (Larlee) and Sam Pace of Homer, La.; eight grandchildren, Deborah Larlee, Stephen Larlee, Lisa Pemberton, Kevin Larlee, Jennifer Larochelle, Melinda Larlee, Jay Scott Swazey, and Tracy Bussey; seven great-granddaughters; she eagerly awaited the planned September birth of her first great-grandson; and numerous very special nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by two grandchildren, Karen Larlee and Eric Swazey. She was immensely proud of her entire family. A celebration of Evelyn’s life will be announced at a later date. To honor her memory, those who wish may send a contribution to Karen’s Climb Foundation, P.O. Box 7977, Nashua, NH 03060-7977. For online register book, please visit www.bouchardfh.com.
EVELYN MAE FOWLER LARLEE
